Title: Last Slayer
Author: Inquisitive1
Rating: PG 13. Minor NC 17 in Part 1
Disclaimer: I own Jack and Briena. All the others belong to Joss Whedon.
Distribution: My site http://www.amgelfire.com/tv/inqstive1sfanfiction/index.html, Fanfiction.net, and mumerous mailing lists. Anyone else want it just ask and you shall have permission to take this fiction and all others that I write.
Feedback: Let me know what you think. Send feedback to inquisitive1@angelfire.com or 2inquisitive1@angelfire.com
______________
Prologue
In a dream a child shall one day be conceived
between one of light and one of dark.
This dreamchild shall appear at the place where Hell and mankind fight
after the death of love combines with Hell.
The Dreamchild shall one day be brought before the two of light and dark
With the strengths of both good and evil
Her appearance shall come at a time of strife
To bring about a balance to day and night,
Love and hate, and loss and gain
Part 1
**** Sunnydale, CA - The docks ****
"Angel, I don't want you to go" the blond haired girl cries hugging her tall, dark and handsome boyfriend tightly. Her heart full of sorrow and pain at the thought of him being gone.
"Buffy I have to go. You know I am the only one who can transport this demon to the ends of the earth." Angel replies his long dead heart aching at the thought of leaving her.
"I know' sighs Buffy, 'Its just I'll miss you" she tells him. Her eyes tearing up again.
"I'll miss you too Buffy.' confesses Angel, 'I have something for you.' Angel reveals reaching into his pocket he pulls out a small jewelry box. "Happy Birthday Buffy" he proclaims handing her the box.
"Angel you didn't have to get me anything" she objects.
"I saw this and thought of you-- so I got it" Angel replies.
Buffy opens the box surprised and delighted to find a silver ring with a crowned heart being held by two hands. "Angel its beautiful...Thank you" she says awed by the gift.
Angel takes the ring out of the box and slips it on her finger. "Its a Claddagh ring. It symbolizes love the heart, friendship the hands, and loyalty the crown. Its given as a sign of love.' he takes her hand and brings it to his lips kissing the ring he says softly, 'I love you Buffy."
"I love you too" Buffy cries softly. She wraps her arms around his neck and kisses him on the lips. "You better get going Angel" she says pulling away from his embrace.
"Well, well, well what do we have here? Angelus kissing the slayer" a vampire growls approaching them in vamp mode. "Give us the arm" he growls advancing towards Buffy and Angel.
"No" Angel snaps furiously. "Buffy you better get out of here" Angel warns.
"Sorry that's not possible' growls the vampire, 'You see our orders are to take the arm and kill the slayer and whoever else gets in our way." The vampire is then joined by some other freaked out vampires. The four vampires rush towards Angel and Buffy. The battle begins. Angel is taking on two vampires trying to keep them from the arm while Buffy is taking on the other three. Buffy is coming to close to the edge of the dock.
"Buffy Look out" Angel yells noticing her so close to the edge. As he watches in horror Buffy is thrown off the dock into the freezing cold water. "BUFFY!!" he yells rushing over to the edge of the dock he dives in after her leaving the arm unguarded. He searches the water when he finds her he pulls her out and onto the shore.
**** Angel's apartment ****
Minor NC 17 Rating
Angel brings the shivering girl into his apartment. Hearing her chattering teeth he says "I'll go get some towels." He heads into his bathroom and returns with a towel and his shirt removed. Tossing her the towel he goes to his dresser and pulls out a pair of sweats and a t shirt. "These might fit you" he says holding them out to her.
"Thanks Angel" Buffy replies taking the clothes from him. She pulls the sweats on rolling them up at the top and bottoms until they fit. Pulling on the t shirt she picks up the towel and announces "you can turn around now." Angel turns around to see Buffy sitting on his bed drying her hair.
Noticing the tired look in her eyes he walks over and takes the towel from her. He finishes the towel drying of her hair then he reluctantly says "We better get you home."
Buffy turns to look at him "Can I stay with you tonight Angel" she entreats.
"What about your mother" he inquires while softly kissing her neck.
"She's out of town for a few days.' she informs him breathlessly, 'She thinks I'm at Willow's tonight." she admits lightly. She turns to look at him pleadingly, "Please" asks kissing him softly on the lips.
He grasps the nape of her neck and deepens the kiss his tongue touching hers. He kisses her jawline softly then moves down her neck. He pauses briefly to caress her neck as if to reassure her and himself that he has no urge to feed. "Angel' Buffy sighs pleadingly. Smiling at her he kisses her moving his hands down her sides until he reaches the hem of the t shirt. Sliding his hands under the shirt he slowly removes it kissing every part of her exposed skin. He slips his hand under the back of her bra and unsnaps it and pulling down the straps leaving her topless to his gaze.
"You are so beautiful" he says appreciatively. He moves his hands to the sweats and quickly removes them along with her panties. He moves back to her lips and kisses her tenderly. "I love you Buffy" he says lightly, "More than anything or anyone" he tells her passionately. He kisses her with all of his emotions. Buffy strokes his forearms, shoulders and back with her nails lightly scratching. Angel pulls away momentarily to remove his pants. Their eyes lock and Angel watches her expressive eyes as he slowly enters her seeing the slight wince of discomfort in her eyes as she makes her his. Kissing her lightly he whispers against her lips "I love you".
Looking up at him in awe Buffy replies lovingly "I love you too my Angel" she begins to move her body with his shuddering at the feel of him inside her body and her soul. Buffy sees his eyes glow in the dark and momentarily she sees his features morph from vampire to human. Buffy kisses him as if to say 'I love you no matter what.'
Angel mournfully buries his face in her neck momentarily feeling self hate over his vampiric self.
Sensing his anguish Buffy whispers "I trust you my Angel." Hearing that reassurance Angel looks up at her and smiles sadly. Buffy becomes aware of the fact that even though she told him she trusts him that he doesn't trust himself not to hurt her. "I do trust you Angel" she says giving him the greatest gift of trust she could to a vampire...her neck.
Angel morphs into his game face and sinks his fangs into her neck and begins to feed lightly. Seconds later they both climax and Angels features return to human. "I love you Buffy" he whispers softly into her ear
Smiling brightly at him Buffy touches his face "I love you too" she kisses him "I always will"
Angel and Buffy make love again and soon they fall asleep in each others arms and dream. They both dream of the future of a child that they know they can not have. In the unknown part of their hearts and the universe the child appears beginning the prophecy
NC 17 rating ends
****
Angel awakes to find Buffy still sleeping. "She is so beautiful. She makes me happy.' he thinks then he realizes 'She makes me feel like I have nothing to worry about. I could spend my whole life with her and have the light back into my life" then suddenly Angel feels this sudden pain in his soul "Buffy" he whispers softly not wanting to wake her he hurries out of bed and gets dressed. The pain intensifies as he rushes outside. Suddenly Angel feels his soul leaving his body falling to the ground he yells "Buffy" and then he is silent.
"Hey are you all right" a lady asks seeing him on the ground she walks over to him.
Suddenly he jumps up and grabs her and growls "I'll feel better once I eat" his features go from angelic to demonic as he sinks his fangs into her jugular. Dropping the dead woman he sighs "I feel better than I have in centuries"
In the apartment Buffy awakes to find herself alone in bed. "Angel?" she calls glancing at the clock. The apartment door opens and in he walks. Buffy senses something isn't right, "Angel? You OK?" she asks.
He looks at her his normally calm eyes filled with something fearful. "Good morning lover"
Seeing the look in his eyes and the evil in his voice. Buffy becomes worried, "Angel what's wrong" she asks reaching for her clothes.
"Oh nothing I'm just happy to be back" he says gleefully, "And I have you to thank for ending that stupid curse"
"What do you mean" Buffy asks in fear and confusion.
Angel walks toward her and whispers "I mean Angel's gone Angelus is back"
Buffy jumps back in horror. "No" she thinks, 'this can't be happening" She stares at him tears coming to her eyes.
"Ah don't cry Slayer we can still fuck" he replies grinning maliciously.
She looks at him in horror then she turns away and walks away her heart pounding in fear and despair. "Oh God its my fault" she thinks rushing to the one person who can help her. Running as fast as she can she races to the library where she finds Giles in his office.
**** The library ****
Giles looks up from the book he is reading and he sees the distraught Slayer in tears. "Buffy what's wrong" he asks ushering her into his office.
"Its Angel" she says with a sob her body shaking in fear.
"What's wrong with Angel?" asks Giles seating her on the couch.
She looks at him tears falling and whispers "He's not Angel anymore"
Giles looks at her in confusion "Wha--at do you mean" he asks thinking 'he's dead"
Buffy cringes at the memory of his cold eyes and cries "Heee-he's Angelus. He lost his soul"
"Oh my God what happened?" demands Giles angrily.
A gasp is heard from the doorway the two look up to find Jenny Calendar standing there stunned, "Oh my god" her face pales.
Giles looks back at his Slayer and demands softly "what happened?"
"The only way he could lose his soul is if he found complete happiness" Jenny says in Buffy's stead, "what happened"
"You knew about the curse" demands Buffy.
"Yes,' Jenny replies, 'it was my clan who cursed him" she admits.
Buffy and Giles look at her in shock then Buffy becomes angry, "You knew? And you didn't tell us? Why?" she demands tearfully.
"I wasn't supposed to I was sent here to keep an eye on him to make sure he was paying for his crimes' Jenny replies mournfully thinking of the handsome vampire and the love he had for the girl before her.
"You knew how close we were getting and you didn't say one word" Buffy summarizes glaring at the teacher.
"I wasn't supposed to I was under orders" Jenny replies looking at Giles and Buffy fearfully.
"I'm sorry Buffy Giles. I was doing my job." counters Jenny.
"Your job just destroyed Angel...my boyfriend is gone.' Buffy says her voice cracking at the memory of his words. 'You dare to try and justify why he was put through 100 years of torture! And because of that he's gone."
"I'm sorry Buffy things weren't supposed to happen like that" Jenny pleads looking for at Giles she says softly, "Rupert?" Their eyes meet. Jenny gasps at the anger and betrayal in his eyes.
Reeling over her confession Giles looks at the sobbing Slayer then at his girlfriend and growls "Just get out of here Jenny" his heart breaking for all of them. Turning his back on her he begins to comfort the sobbing girl.
Jenny looks at them sadly and whispers, "I'm sorry" tears come to her eyes.
Buffy looks up at Jenny, her eyes full of sadness and hate she replies in a deadly voice, "Get out of here"
Jenny nods and leaves the library. "I am so sorry for everything" she whispers.
In the office Giles softly asks "Buffy how did he lose his soul?"
Looking up at him her eyes full of bittersweet memories of their night together she replies in a whisper, "We spent the night together" shocking Giles even more.
****
Across town Angelus is entering the Crawford Mansion. "Hello Spike, Drusilla' he greets grinning
Spike looks up from his wheelchair "What are you doing here Angel?" he demands
"Something's different...' Drusilla says dreamily. 'He's different." She stares at him and then shrieks with laughter. "Spikey its Daddy, he's filled with evil again"
Angelus laughs cruelly and replies "Yes Dru its me" he says hugging her.
Spike looks at him in shock, "Well Soul Boy what happened to you?"
"She set him free" Dru says dreamily. "she set Daddy free"
"Yes she did. Now I'm back at ready to destroy" Angelus replies
"Destroy what?" asks Spike.
"The Slayer...Miss Edith' she cries picking up her doll, 'Daddy's going to destroy the mean old Slayer" Drusilla says to the doll in a dreamy voice.
"That I am Princess" Angelus replies grinning at them.
**** Crawford Mansion- Four months later ****
"I will kill you" growled Angelus swinging his sword slicing into the Slayers arm. Caught off guard by the sudden pain Buffy dropped her sword and watches him bring his sword up in an arch. Buffy sits there remembering all that had occurred and all that would never occur. Her mind flashes to the dream she had of a child. Holding her breath Buffy awaits in terror for her lover to strike when suddenly out of nowhere Angelus screams in pain and falls to the ground. Buffy watches as a golden light appears in his eyes.
He looks up at her tears in his eyes as he asks tearfully "Buffy?" he struggles to stand.
"Angel?" she asked her voice hesitant.
"Buffy what happened?" asks Angel.
Looking behind him Buffy watches in horror as Acathala's mouth opens. "Angel" Buffy says terrified.
"Buffy? I am sorry for everything. I didn't mean it" he cried in horrified confusion.
Putting her finger to his lips Buffy softly cried, "Shhh, its okay. Close your eyes my Angel" He closes his eyes and the moment he does she kisses him.
Then she whispered tearfully, "I love you Angel. I'm sorry" she slammed the sword into his stomach.
Angel opened his eyes and looking down he cried "Buffy!?!"
Her heart heavy she began to cry, "I'm sorry Angel" as she watched him fall into the vortex. She watches as her lover disappears and the vortex closes.
Falling to the ground she begins to cry for what had happened and what could have happened. Heartbroken she turns to leave and as she does she removes the ring he gave her dropping it on the floor she walks out of the mansion her heart ripped in two. "I love you Angel. I am sorry" she says tearfully leaving the mansion.
Unbeknownst to her a newborn child appears out of nowhere right on the spot where she dropped the ring. The figure that had been watching the event stepped out of the shadows. He walked over and picked up the crying infant. "So the prophecy was true" he says awed. He looked down at the crying newborn and realized that the little girl resembled her parents.
"It isn't yet time to tell her about you huh? We have awhile to wait until the signs appear. Lets get you home" he said carrying the infant out to the waiting car. As he puts the child in the car seat a bright light appears to come from the child. As the man watched in amazement the newborn grew to be the size of a 6 month old.
"My God," he whispered, "what are you?" As he looked into the child's eyes he realized that the child needed to be cared for and protected. "What shall I call you?" He wondered, "I know how about I call you Briena." The little girl cries in response. "Then Briena it is" he says getting in the car, "Well Briena lets head somewhere safe" he says starting the car.
Part 2
Five months later at the mansion in Sunnydale. A bright light suddenly appeared from within the mansion. Out of nowhere a man fell to the ground looking up he cried out in confusion, "Buffy?!"
Somewhere far from Sunnydale a toddler cries out in her sleep, "Papa?"
The man sleeping in the other bed awakens with a start "Briena?" he called out in fear.
The three year old girl opens her eyes and cries "Papa?!"
"Shh...Briena its me Jack. What's wrong little one?" He asks picking her up cuddling her.
"Papa" she says tearfully.
"It's the first sign. He must be back,' Jack thought to himself. He then reassured the girl, 'Its ok Riena. Jack's here" he comforts the little girl. He holds the little girl until she falls asleep.
"The time will come soon" he thinks looking down at the toddler.
The next morning Jack sits beside the toddler as she is coloring "Briena do you remember what your dream was about?" Briena nods not looking up from her picture "Will you tell me about your dream?"
Briena looks at him then back at her picture. "I was in a building it was wet and dark. I was looking around when a lady walked in. I couldn't see her face or hear her talk yet I knew that she was my mommy. Her heart was breaking. She left then a few moments later a bright light appeared. I was blinded. The moment the light faded I sensed someone there a man. I couldn't see him yet I knew he was my daddy. I could feel his pain, anger and fear. He cried for someone. He was so sad." she finishes sniffling at the sad dream.
Jack pulls the toddler onto his lap "I know Briena. It'll be OK" he hugs her
***At the Sunnydale High Library nine months later***
"Buffy" begins Angel.
"Yes" answers Buffy.
Looking sadly at her Angel continues, "When this is over I'm leaving Sunnydale"
Buffy looks at him shocked, "What? You're leaving Sunnydale? Why?"
"Because,' he stops for a moment, 'Because I love you too much to stay here. I can't let you live your life loving me an immortal. It hurts too much to stay here and watch you knowing we can never be together"
"Damn you Angel..it doesn't matter to me" protests Buffy angrily.
"It matters to me Buffy. I've made up my mind I'm leaving" he says walking out of the library. Buffy watches him her heart breaking as he leaves.
*** Far from Sunnydale ***
The little girl looks up from her coloring book and cries "Jack" the man enters the room.
"Yes Briena yo--" seeing the look on her face he realizes the next sign has come the broken heart of two lovers.
"Jack? Why am I different?" inquires the confused little girl.
Looking sadly at her Jack hesitantly replies, "Because you are different from everyone else. You have a purpose in life."
Briena looks at him in confusion then says, "What is it?" She looks away for a moment, "Don't understand"
Kneeling beside the little girl's chair Jack tries to explain, "You see Reina you were born with a special gift. A gift no other child has-- a gift in which you can change the lives of those around you."
"Why do I have those dreams?" she demands in a childish voice.
"Its hard to explain the dreams. But I'll try to,' he sits across from her, 'Briena the dreams you are having are memories of your parents. The connection you have with them will help you to identify them."
"Who are my Daddy and Mommy?" demands Briena
Jack looks at her thoughtfully and nods, "I can't tell you who they are-- you'll know who they are when the time comes." Jack watches the dark haired brown eyed girl as she absorbs what she was told.
"When" she demands.
Jack shrugs, "I am not sure" he admits, "You'll just know."
"I wish I knew about them now" she sighs in frustration.
"Someday Briena you will" promises Jack.
*** A year later in LA ***
"Angel this came for you in the mail" Cordelia announces walking in the door carrying with her a package. She puts it on the counter.
"Thanks Cordelia," Angel replies getting up from his computer. He walks over and picks up the package. "I wonder who its from" he mutters as he opens it. Much to his confusion and surprise he finds an untitled book enclosed. "What is this?" mutters Angel in confusion.
"So Angel what is it?' asks the curious Cordelia, 'A gift from an admirer?"
Angel looks at her in confusion and shrugs, "I'm not sure. Its a book but it doesn't have a title. Who would send this too me?" he wonders opening it to the first page.
"Probably one of your psycho friends" Cordelia retorts. Much to her surprise she gets absolutely no remark from Angel. Cordelia huffs, "I'm leaving." She gets up and slams the door as she leaves. Angel is so engrossed in his reading that he doesn't notice her leave.
Angel looks up from the book in astonishment to realize that he is in possession of the only book to ever discuss the prophecy of the last slayer. "My God! This is amazing," he utters in amazement, "This book has part of the prophecy of the last slayer. Giles would love this." he remarks picking up the phone.
*** At Giles apartment in Sunnydale ***
"Hello" answers Giles sleepily. He instantly awakes to recognize Angel's voice.
"Sorry to wake you this late but I found something you might be interested in" Angel tells him apologetically.
Giles turns on his bedside lamp and sits up, "Its alright. So what is it you wanted to tell me?" he asks rubbing his eyes.
"Giles do you know if there was ever a prophecy about the last slayer?" asks Angel.
"Uh..If I remember correctly there is a prophecy about the last slayer,' he replies, 'But it has been missng for centuries. Why?" He asks interested.
"Because I think I have it" he announces
Giles yelps, "You have it? How?" The watcher asks in surprise.
"I received a package in the mail when I opened it I found a book with no title. I read the first page...it mentions the last slayer." Angel says excitedly, "I'll bring it tonight."
"Okay. We'll see you at my place." says Giles.
"All right" replies Angel hanging up.
**** Not far from Sunnydale at a motel ****
"Riena pay attention" orders Jack.
"Huh?" asks the girl in confusion looking at him in surprise.
Jack sighs, "Briena I know you are bored with this stuff but you need to learn it." He reminds her. Looking at the girl he has raised the last two years he is still stunned by the amazing creature.
"I know." she sighs in disgust. She walks over to the mirror and glances at her reflection. Seeing that her reflection is much the same there yet not she becomes saddened with herself. Glancing away from the mirror Briena looks at Jack the man who raised her. "Jack why am I fuzzy" she cries in anger.
Jack walks over to the girl to comfort her, "Its part of who you are. I'm sorry that you have to deal with this but it'll get better" He says hugging her. "I know it'll be better soon" he promises thinking to himself. He pulls away and asks "Now are you ready to get back to work?"
Briena looks up at the blond haired giant and reluctantly nods, "Sure" she follows him into the training room. She heads to the mini punching bag and hits it a few times lightly. Suddenly out of nowhere Briena gets this strange surge of power and with one hit she snaps the punching bag loose from its chain and it goes flying across the room. "Wow" she says in amazement.
"Thats good." compliments Jack. "My God her strength is getting more powerful by the day and she is only 5." he thinks to himself. To Briena he says, "Its time for you to go to bed midget"
"Do I have to?" she whines, "I'm not tired" she argues.
"Sorry kid but we need to leave tomorrow afternoon." reminds Jack
"I know" she grumbles heading to the door. "Night Jack" she calls.
"Good night Briena." replies Jack watching her leave. "And soon good bye" he thinks to himself.
Briena heads to her room and crawls into bed. Staring up at her ceiling she makes a wish, "I wish I knew my Mommy and Daddy." Soon she drifts off to sleep.
Part 3
*** Giles' apartment ***
"Giles whats the deal for tonight?" asks Buffy walking into the library.
Giles looks up blankly at his slayer, "Ahh Buffy" he says in surprise.
"Uh Giles who else would it be? I mean unless your expecting Santa Claus?" She teases sitting in a chair.
"Uh no I just wasn't paying any attention" stammers Giles.
Buffy then senses another presence "Who's here?" she asks curiously looking around. Much to her surprise out of the shadows steps Angel - her heart begins to pound in anticipation. "Hello Angel" she greets trying to sound casual.
"Nice to see you Buffy" replies Angel staring at her.
They jump out of their reverie when the front door opens and laughing teens walk in. Suddenly the room is quiet when in enters Cordelia and a dark haired man.
Cordelia looks around in disgust, "Okaaay are we suddenly in a morgue or is no one in the mood to talk?' she asks walking in. Seeing Giles she says "Hello Giles still wearing tweed I see." she sits down on the couch.
"Hi Angel" stammers Buffy's best friend Willow in surprise. "If you don't mind me asking uh why are you two here?" she asks.
"Yeah why are Dead Boy and Wannabe Queen here" demands Xander in obvious disdain as he glares at Cordelia.
"Well it seems like NerdBoy still has no humor,' snorts Cordelia, 'or fashion sense." She snaps back glaring at him.
"Okay I am sensing major hostility" states Willow's boyfriend Oz.
"This fashion disaster is Doyle" Cordelia introduces "Doyle thats Giles, Willow, Xander and Oz."
" 'ello" Doyle greets. The others greet Doyle
The teens enter the room and all sit in the living room. Giles can feel the tension in the room and in an effort to bring in control he says, "Angel called me last night and told me he found a new prophecy."
"Oh great! Dead Boy is Prophecy Boy again" groans Xander. They all turn and glare at him.
"So whats the deal" asks Buffy looking at Angel.
"Its the last Slayer" he says his voice serious.
"The last slayer" cries Willow excitedly, "Ooh is she like the last slayer ever or something. Or is she the metaphorical last slayer"
"Calm down Willow" says Buffy
"Yeah geez Will did you have coffee again" teases Xander
"I'm not exactly sure I'm still reading the book" answers Angel.
"The last slayer never heard it" Doyle remarks
Outside an apartment building a car pulls up and stops.
Briena looks at the apartment building before her, "Jack why are we here?" she asks
Glancing at his charge Jack answers, "There are some people here I need to see. Grab your bag we don't have much time" they get out of the car
Briena and Jack head into the building, "Why are we here"
"Riena please be good" pleads Jack. His heart beginning to break at the thought that tonight was the night he would lose the child he raised. Grabbing the backpack from the back seat he tosses it over he shoulder.
Huffing angrily Briena follows Jack towards the building. As they get closer Briena becomes more frightened, swallowing nervously she hurries to Jack's side taking his hand. "Jack? Why are we here?"
Kneeling before her Jack says. "Riena it'll be OK. You have nothing to fear here." He hugs her before standing. He takes her hand and leads her into the building.
Angel and Buffy both hear someone outside the front door. Curious Buffy opens the front door two unfamiliar people standing there. One is a little girl about 4 or 5 years old holding an older man's hand tightly Buffy notices the little girl's brown eyes are sad and nervous. Buffy feels like she has seen the girl before. "Who are you?" Buffy demands
"My name is Jack Sullivan. This Briena. I'm here about the book" he says looking at Angel. "We aren't vampires" he assures them
"Did you send it to me?" Angel demands
"Jack" Briena whimpers her voice filled with pain. She doubles over in pain. "Hurts Jack" she whimpers
"Is she all right?" asks Giles worriedly "Should I call an ambulance?"
"No she's fine" Jack answers. "She's having a reaction to the Hellmouth. She'll adjust"
Briena whimpers again. "Jack" she then passes out in his arms
"Do you have somewhere I can put her down?" Jack requests
Giles points to the stairs. "My room's upstairs" Jack nods picking up Briena he carries her into the room.
"Giles what is going on?" Buffy demands. 'What was he talking about?"
The upstairs door closes as Jack is walking down the stairs he answers "What I have to tell you cannot be mentioned outside this room not even to Riena"
The others look at each other and reluctantly nod. "Briena is a very special girl.' he begins. 'Giles have you heard of the dream child?"
Doyle looks at the man before him "She is special. I can feel it" he says looking at Angel
Giles removes his glasses. "Um yes. If I remember its the legend of a child born of a dream between one of light and dark. According to the legend the Dreamchild will be born in the...' he trails off. 'oh my god are you telling me what I think your telling me?" he glances at the stairs and then at Buffy and Angel
"Yes I am" Jack replies
"Uh care to fill us in?" asks Buffy
"It would be easier if I told you the prophecy' Jack answers. He begins,
'In a dream a child shall one day be conceived
between one of light and one of dark.
This dreamchild shall appear at the place where Hell and mankind fight
after the death of love combines with Hell.
The Dreamchild shall one day be brought before the two of light and dark
With the strengths of both good and evil
Her appearance shall come at a time of strife
To bring about a balance to day and night,
Love and hate, and loss and gain'
Looking at Buffy and then Angel "Does that make sense to you?"
"Uh no" Buffy shakes her head
Giles looks nervously at Jack. "Mr. Sullivan if you are sure that she is the one of the prophecy then why are you here?"
"Mr Giles there is a part of the prophecy missing.' he looks at the stairs. 'It is said that if she is not raised in the way of her parents she will not be able to save the world. She is both the Dreamchild and the Last Slayer"
The words of the prophecy dawn on Angel. "Oh my God. Are you saying what I think your saying"
"Yes.' Jack answers reluctantly. He glances at Buffy. 'Genetically Briena is your and Buffy's daughter" he announces stunning the teens.
"Say what?" demands Buffy
From the upstairs bedroom they hear Briena call "Jack" her voice filled with pain
Jack jumps up and hurries into the bedroom the others curiously follow. They watch from the doorway as Jack and she falls asleep. "My god" Giles whispers
Jack picks her up off the floor and lays her on the bed covering her. "She'll sleep for a while." He tells them returning to the main room "She's adjusting easier than I thought she would"
"I am totally confused" Buffy states "What is this with the whole uh daughter thing?" she demands sitting at the table.
Jack paces before the group "About 200 years ago my great great grandfather found this prophecy. He only found part of it over the years it has been passed down to each generation and it has been our duty to keep to guard the prophecy and to own day protect the child until it was time for the child to be reunited with her parents. It was also our duty to uncover more to the prophecy."
"So your her guide" Willow says
Jack stops pacing and looks at the witch "Not any longer it is now your duty" he says looking at Buffy and Angel.
Buffy looks at Giles "Is he telling the truth Giles?" she demands
Giles looks at his Slayer sadly as he removes his glasses "It is possible. I've only heard rumors of the prophecy."
Buffy stands "I've gotta get outa here" she mutters walking out of Giles apartment.
Angel follows close behind. He finds Buffy sitting on the edge of the water fountain. He hears the sounds of Buffy softly crying. He walks closer crouching before her he takes her hand with his own stroking it softly. "Buffy?" he asks tentatively
She looks at him her eyes filled with tears "Angel that night' she glances away and back 'I...I did have a dream about a child. I didn't think anything about it because I'd had those dreams time and again when we were together."
Angel sighs "I know Buffy. I did too" he admits
She looks down at their clasped hands her hair falling in her face "We both had a dream about a child. Why?"
"She has a purpose here. Buffy, I...I don't know exactly what but she does"
"What are we going to do Angel? How am I going to explain this to my Mom and Dad? Or Riley?" she asks
Angel tucks a loose strand of hair behind her hair "We'll deal with your Mom and Dad when the time comes." He promises.
"And Riley?" she asks softly
Angel sighs "I'm not sure Buffy if he should know."
Buffy pulls away from his touch "He's my boyfriend Angel." she retorts angrily
Angel stands his anger barely restrained "He's also part of a military group that hunts demons. If they found out about the little girl upstairs god knows what they would do to her. I am not willing to risk that. Are you?"
Buffy shakes her head "No" she admits softly. She looks at her hands "Angel what are we going to do about the little girl upstairs? How are we going to raise her?"
"We'll figure it out" Angel promises
Buffy nods standing she smiles slightly "We have a child Angel."
"Yeah we do" Angel smiles back "Why don't we go back inside" he suggests holding out his hand
The two lovers head into the apartment to find the others talking. Giles notices them enter "Ahh good your back."
Buffy sits down on the couch beside Willow. Angel sits beside Buffy leaning forward facing Jack he asks "Why did you wait to tell us about her earlier?"
Jack rubs his neck "In simple terms it wasn't time"
"Wasn't time? What does that mean?" Buffy demands
"Briena has this inner alarm that alerted her to the markers in your life that signalled the approaching time."
"I don't understand" Angel states
"Riena is somehow alert to times when you both are in pain. Angel when you returned from Hell she woke up screaming. She gets a physical reaction like you saw earlier. Its never been that intense."
"Does she know?" Angel asks
"Who you are?" he inquires at Angel's nod he answers "She knows she has a destiny she just doesn't know who you are. I thought it was for the best to wait until she was ready." Jack stands and goes over the back pack on the floor. He sits down and unzips the back pack and a stuffed dog falls out. He picks it up and chuckles "She never goes anywhere without Doogie." he takes out a folder and puts it on the coffee table "This is all the paper work I made for Briena. Birth certificates in there. I also added some basic things you'll need to know about her like favorite cereal" He stands again with a sad smile "Take care of her she's a great kid"
"We will" Buffy promises smiling back
He nods "I better get going"
"You aren't going to say goodbye to Briena?" Willow asks surprised
"No. Its better this way" he answers heading towards the door "I'll check in on her everyonce in a while" he promises heading out the front door closing it quietly behind him "Goodbye midget" he thinks walking away
Xander looks at Buffy and Angel "So who's getting the kid?"
Buffy and Angel look at each other "Haven't discussed it" Angel answers
"Buffy what about Riley?" Willow asks
Buffy looks at the others "I decided to not tell him"
"Why not?" Xander inquires
"He's part of the Initiative. I'm not sure if I can risk telling him" Buffy admits
"We won't if thats what you want" Willow promises
"Its wise that you don't" Doyle muses looking at Angel
"Mom's out of town why don't we head to the house" Buffy suggests
Angel nods "I'll go get Briena" He heads up to the bedroom to find the 4 year old little girl fast asleep. Smiling faintly Angel picks up the sleeping child. At first she struggles in his arms not familiar with the person holding her. Angel sensing her tension at his touch whispers "Its OK your safe." Calmed by the soothing voice she curls closer into the safety of his arms. Angel joins the others downstairs "Ready?" he asks Buffy. Buffy nods
" 'delia and me will go back to LA and keep the ship floatin'. Keep us up to date" Doyle says
"Hey Angel can I have tomorrow off?" Cordelia asks
"Sure" Angel agrees his attention on Buffy. "Why don't you drop us off at Buffy's then take the car."
Doyle nods and the four adults and the sleeping child go to the car.
"Buffy call me" Willow says hugging the blond Slayer
"I will" Buffy promises getting into the back seat with Angel
TBC
Author: Inquisitive1
Rating: PG 13. Minor NC 17 in Part 1
Disclaimer: I own Jack and Briena. All the others belong to Joss Whedon.
Distribution: My site http://www.amgelfire.com/tv/inqstive1sfanfiction/index.html, Fanfiction.net, and mumerous mailing lists. Anyone else want it just ask and you shall have permission to take this fiction and all others that I write.
Feedback: Let me know what you think. Send feedback to inquisitive1@angelfire.com or 2inquisitive1@angelfire.com
______________
Prologue
In a dream a child shall one day be conceived
between one of light and one of dark.
This dreamchild shall appear at the place where Hell and mankind fight
after the death of love combines with Hell.
The Dreamchild shall one day be brought before the two of light and dark
With the strengths of both good and evil
Her appearance shall come at a time of strife
To bring about a balance to day and night,
Love and hate, and loss and gain
Part 1
**** Sunnydale, CA - The docks ****
"Angel, I don't want you to go" the blond haired girl cries hugging her tall, dark and handsome boyfriend tightly. Her heart full of sorrow and pain at the thought of him being gone.
"Buffy I have to go. You know I am the only one who can transport this demon to the ends of the earth." Angel replies his long dead heart aching at the thought of leaving her.
"I know' sighs Buffy, 'Its just I'll miss you" she tells him. Her eyes tearing up again.
"I'll miss you too Buffy.' confesses Angel, 'I have something for you.' Angel reveals reaching into his pocket he pulls out a small jewelry box. "Happy Birthday Buffy" he proclaims handing her the box.
"Angel you didn't have to get me anything" she objects.
"I saw this and thought of you-- so I got it" Angel replies.
Buffy opens the box surprised and delighted to find a silver ring with a crowned heart being held by two hands. "Angel its beautiful...Thank you" she says awed by the gift.
Angel takes the ring out of the box and slips it on her finger. "Its a Claddagh ring. It symbolizes love the heart, friendship the hands, and loyalty the crown. Its given as a sign of love.' he takes her hand and brings it to his lips kissing the ring he says softly, 'I love you Buffy."
"I love you too" Buffy cries softly. She wraps her arms around his neck and kisses him on the lips. "You better get going Angel" she says pulling away from his embrace.
"Well, well, well what do we have here? Angelus kissing the slayer" a vampire growls approaching them in vamp mode. "Give us the arm" he growls advancing towards Buffy and Angel.
"No" Angel snaps furiously. "Buffy you better get out of here" Angel warns.
"Sorry that's not possible' growls the vampire, 'You see our orders are to take the arm and kill the slayer and whoever else gets in our way." The vampire is then joined by some other freaked out vampires. The four vampires rush towards Angel and Buffy. The battle begins. Angel is taking on two vampires trying to keep them from the arm while Buffy is taking on the other three. Buffy is coming to close to the edge of the dock.
"Buffy Look out" Angel yells noticing her so close to the edge. As he watches in horror Buffy is thrown off the dock into the freezing cold water. "BUFFY!!" he yells rushing over to the edge of the dock he dives in after her leaving the arm unguarded. He searches the water when he finds her he pulls her out and onto the shore.
**** Angel's apartment ****
Minor NC 17 Rating
Angel brings the shivering girl into his apartment. Hearing her chattering teeth he says "I'll go get some towels." He heads into his bathroom and returns with a towel and his shirt removed. Tossing her the towel he goes to his dresser and pulls out a pair of sweats and a t shirt. "These might fit you" he says holding them out to her.
"Thanks Angel" Buffy replies taking the clothes from him. She pulls the sweats on rolling them up at the top and bottoms until they fit. Pulling on the t shirt she picks up the towel and announces "you can turn around now." Angel turns around to see Buffy sitting on his bed drying her hair.
Noticing the tired look in her eyes he walks over and takes the towel from her. He finishes the towel drying of her hair then he reluctantly says "We better get you home."
Buffy turns to look at him "Can I stay with you tonight Angel" she entreats.
"What about your mother" he inquires while softly kissing her neck.
"She's out of town for a few days.' she informs him breathlessly, 'She thinks I'm at Willow's tonight." she admits lightly. She turns to look at him pleadingly, "Please" asks kissing him softly on the lips.
He grasps the nape of her neck and deepens the kiss his tongue touching hers. He kisses her jawline softly then moves down her neck. He pauses briefly to caress her neck as if to reassure her and himself that he has no urge to feed. "Angel' Buffy sighs pleadingly. Smiling at her he kisses her moving his hands down her sides until he reaches the hem of the t shirt. Sliding his hands under the shirt he slowly removes it kissing every part of her exposed skin. He slips his hand under the back of her bra and unsnaps it and pulling down the straps leaving her topless to his gaze.
"You are so beautiful" he says appreciatively. He moves his hands to the sweats and quickly removes them along with her panties. He moves back to her lips and kisses her tenderly. "I love you Buffy" he says lightly, "More than anything or anyone" he tells her passionately. He kisses her with all of his emotions. Buffy strokes his forearms, shoulders and back with her nails lightly scratching. Angel pulls away momentarily to remove his pants. Their eyes lock and Angel watches her expressive eyes as he slowly enters her seeing the slight wince of discomfort in her eyes as she makes her his. Kissing her lightly he whispers against her lips "I love you".
Looking up at him in awe Buffy replies lovingly "I love you too my Angel" she begins to move her body with his shuddering at the feel of him inside her body and her soul. Buffy sees his eyes glow in the dark and momentarily she sees his features morph from vampire to human. Buffy kisses him as if to say 'I love you no matter what.'
Angel mournfully buries his face in her neck momentarily feeling self hate over his vampiric self.
Sensing his anguish Buffy whispers "I trust you my Angel." Hearing that reassurance Angel looks up at her and smiles sadly. Buffy becomes aware of the fact that even though she told him she trusts him that he doesn't trust himself not to hurt her. "I do trust you Angel" she says giving him the greatest gift of trust she could to a vampire...her neck.
Angel morphs into his game face and sinks his fangs into her neck and begins to feed lightly. Seconds later they both climax and Angels features return to human. "I love you Buffy" he whispers softly into her ear
Smiling brightly at him Buffy touches his face "I love you too" she kisses him "I always will"
Angel and Buffy make love again and soon they fall asleep in each others arms and dream. They both dream of the future of a child that they know they can not have. In the unknown part of their hearts and the universe the child appears beginning the prophecy
NC 17 rating ends
****
Angel awakes to find Buffy still sleeping. "She is so beautiful. She makes me happy.' he thinks then he realizes 'She makes me feel like I have nothing to worry about. I could spend my whole life with her and have the light back into my life" then suddenly Angel feels this sudden pain in his soul "Buffy" he whispers softly not wanting to wake her he hurries out of bed and gets dressed. The pain intensifies as he rushes outside. Suddenly Angel feels his soul leaving his body falling to the ground he yells "Buffy" and then he is silent.
"Hey are you all right" a lady asks seeing him on the ground she walks over to him.
Suddenly he jumps up and grabs her and growls "I'll feel better once I eat" his features go from angelic to demonic as he sinks his fangs into her jugular. Dropping the dead woman he sighs "I feel better than I have in centuries"
In the apartment Buffy awakes to find herself alone in bed. "Angel?" she calls glancing at the clock. The apartment door opens and in he walks. Buffy senses something isn't right, "Angel? You OK?" she asks.
He looks at her his normally calm eyes filled with something fearful. "Good morning lover"
Seeing the look in his eyes and the evil in his voice. Buffy becomes worried, "Angel what's wrong" she asks reaching for her clothes.
"Oh nothing I'm just happy to be back" he says gleefully, "And I have you to thank for ending that stupid curse"
"What do you mean" Buffy asks in fear and confusion.
Angel walks toward her and whispers "I mean Angel's gone Angelus is back"
Buffy jumps back in horror. "No" she thinks, 'this can't be happening" She stares at him tears coming to her eyes.
"Ah don't cry Slayer we can still fuck" he replies grinning maliciously.
She looks at him in horror then she turns away and walks away her heart pounding in fear and despair. "Oh God its my fault" she thinks rushing to the one person who can help her. Running as fast as she can she races to the library where she finds Giles in his office.
**** The library ****
Giles looks up from the book he is reading and he sees the distraught Slayer in tears. "Buffy what's wrong" he asks ushering her into his office.
"Its Angel" she says with a sob her body shaking in fear.
"What's wrong with Angel?" asks Giles seating her on the couch.
She looks at him tears falling and whispers "He's not Angel anymore"
Giles looks at her in confusion "Wha--at do you mean" he asks thinking 'he's dead"
Buffy cringes at the memory of his cold eyes and cries "Heee-he's Angelus. He lost his soul"
"Oh my God what happened?" demands Giles angrily.
A gasp is heard from the doorway the two look up to find Jenny Calendar standing there stunned, "Oh my god" her face pales.
Giles looks back at his Slayer and demands softly "what happened?"
"The only way he could lose his soul is if he found complete happiness" Jenny says in Buffy's stead, "what happened"
"You knew about the curse" demands Buffy.
"Yes,' Jenny replies, 'it was my clan who cursed him" she admits.
Buffy and Giles look at her in shock then Buffy becomes angry, "You knew? And you didn't tell us? Why?" she demands tearfully.
"I wasn't supposed to I was sent here to keep an eye on him to make sure he was paying for his crimes' Jenny replies mournfully thinking of the handsome vampire and the love he had for the girl before her.
"You knew how close we were getting and you didn't say one word" Buffy summarizes glaring at the teacher.
"I wasn't supposed to I was under orders" Jenny replies looking at Giles and Buffy fearfully.
"I'm sorry Buffy Giles. I was doing my job." counters Jenny.
"Your job just destroyed Angel...my boyfriend is gone.' Buffy says her voice cracking at the memory of his words. 'You dare to try and justify why he was put through 100 years of torture! And because of that he's gone."
"I'm sorry Buffy things weren't supposed to happen like that" Jenny pleads looking for at Giles she says softly, "Rupert?" Their eyes meet. Jenny gasps at the anger and betrayal in his eyes.
Reeling over her confession Giles looks at the sobbing Slayer then at his girlfriend and growls "Just get out of here Jenny" his heart breaking for all of them. Turning his back on her he begins to comfort the sobbing girl.
Jenny looks at them sadly and whispers, "I'm sorry" tears come to her eyes.
Buffy looks up at Jenny, her eyes full of sadness and hate she replies in a deadly voice, "Get out of here"
Jenny nods and leaves the library. "I am so sorry for everything" she whispers.
In the office Giles softly asks "Buffy how did he lose his soul?"
Looking up at him her eyes full of bittersweet memories of their night together she replies in a whisper, "We spent the night together" shocking Giles even more.
****
Across town Angelus is entering the Crawford Mansion. "Hello Spike, Drusilla' he greets grinning
Spike looks up from his wheelchair "What are you doing here Angel?" he demands
"Something's different...' Drusilla says dreamily. 'He's different." She stares at him and then shrieks with laughter. "Spikey its Daddy, he's filled with evil again"
Angelus laughs cruelly and replies "Yes Dru its me" he says hugging her.
Spike looks at him in shock, "Well Soul Boy what happened to you?"
"She set him free" Dru says dreamily. "she set Daddy free"
"Yes she did. Now I'm back at ready to destroy" Angelus replies
"Destroy what?" asks Spike.
"The Slayer...Miss Edith' she cries picking up her doll, 'Daddy's going to destroy the mean old Slayer" Drusilla says to the doll in a dreamy voice.
"That I am Princess" Angelus replies grinning at them.
**** Crawford Mansion- Four months later ****
"I will kill you" growled Angelus swinging his sword slicing into the Slayers arm. Caught off guard by the sudden pain Buffy dropped her sword and watches him bring his sword up in an arch. Buffy sits there remembering all that had occurred and all that would never occur. Her mind flashes to the dream she had of a child. Holding her breath Buffy awaits in terror for her lover to strike when suddenly out of nowhere Angelus screams in pain and falls to the ground. Buffy watches as a golden light appears in his eyes.
He looks up at her tears in his eyes as he asks tearfully "Buffy?" he struggles to stand.
"Angel?" she asked her voice hesitant.
"Buffy what happened?" asks Angel.
Looking behind him Buffy watches in horror as Acathala's mouth opens. "Angel" Buffy says terrified.
"Buffy? I am sorry for everything. I didn't mean it" he cried in horrified confusion.
Putting her finger to his lips Buffy softly cried, "Shhh, its okay. Close your eyes my Angel" He closes his eyes and the moment he does she kisses him.
Then she whispered tearfully, "I love you Angel. I'm sorry" she slammed the sword into his stomach.
Angel opened his eyes and looking down he cried "Buffy!?!"
Her heart heavy she began to cry, "I'm sorry Angel" as she watched him fall into the vortex. She watches as her lover disappears and the vortex closes.
Falling to the ground she begins to cry for what had happened and what could have happened. Heartbroken she turns to leave and as she does she removes the ring he gave her dropping it on the floor she walks out of the mansion her heart ripped in two. "I love you Angel. I am sorry" she says tearfully leaving the mansion.
Unbeknownst to her a newborn child appears out of nowhere right on the spot where she dropped the ring. The figure that had been watching the event stepped out of the shadows. He walked over and picked up the crying infant. "So the prophecy was true" he says awed. He looked down at the crying newborn and realized that the little girl resembled her parents.
"It isn't yet time to tell her about you huh? We have awhile to wait until the signs appear. Lets get you home" he said carrying the infant out to the waiting car. As he puts the child in the car seat a bright light appears to come from the child. As the man watched in amazement the newborn grew to be the size of a 6 month old.
"My God," he whispered, "what are you?" As he looked into the child's eyes he realized that the child needed to be cared for and protected. "What shall I call you?" He wondered, "I know how about I call you Briena." The little girl cries in response. "Then Briena it is" he says getting in the car, "Well Briena lets head somewhere safe" he says starting the car.
Part 2
Five months later at the mansion in Sunnydale. A bright light suddenly appeared from within the mansion. Out of nowhere a man fell to the ground looking up he cried out in confusion, "Buffy?!"
Somewhere far from Sunnydale a toddler cries out in her sleep, "Papa?"
The man sleeping in the other bed awakens with a start "Briena?" he called out in fear.
The three year old girl opens her eyes and cries "Papa?!"
"Shh...Briena its me Jack. What's wrong little one?" He asks picking her up cuddling her.
"Papa" she says tearfully.
"It's the first sign. He must be back,' Jack thought to himself. He then reassured the girl, 'Its ok Riena. Jack's here" he comforts the little girl. He holds the little girl until she falls asleep.
"The time will come soon" he thinks looking down at the toddler.
The next morning Jack sits beside the toddler as she is coloring "Briena do you remember what your dream was about?" Briena nods not looking up from her picture "Will you tell me about your dream?"
Briena looks at him then back at her picture. "I was in a building it was wet and dark. I was looking around when a lady walked in. I couldn't see her face or hear her talk yet I knew that she was my mommy. Her heart was breaking. She left then a few moments later a bright light appeared. I was blinded. The moment the light faded I sensed someone there a man. I couldn't see him yet I knew he was my daddy. I could feel his pain, anger and fear. He cried for someone. He was so sad." she finishes sniffling at the sad dream.
Jack pulls the toddler onto his lap "I know Briena. It'll be OK" he hugs her
***At the Sunnydale High Library nine months later***
"Buffy" begins Angel.
"Yes" answers Buffy.
Looking sadly at her Angel continues, "When this is over I'm leaving Sunnydale"
Buffy looks at him shocked, "What? You're leaving Sunnydale? Why?"
"Because,' he stops for a moment, 'Because I love you too much to stay here. I can't let you live your life loving me an immortal. It hurts too much to stay here and watch you knowing we can never be together"
"Damn you Angel..it doesn't matter to me" protests Buffy angrily.
"It matters to me Buffy. I've made up my mind I'm leaving" he says walking out of the library. Buffy watches him her heart breaking as he leaves.
*** Far from Sunnydale ***
The little girl looks up from her coloring book and cries "Jack" the man enters the room.
"Yes Briena yo--" seeing the look on her face he realizes the next sign has come the broken heart of two lovers.
"Jack? Why am I different?" inquires the confused little girl.
Looking sadly at her Jack hesitantly replies, "Because you are different from everyone else. You have a purpose in life."
Briena looks at him in confusion then says, "What is it?" She looks away for a moment, "Don't understand"
Kneeling beside the little girl's chair Jack tries to explain, "You see Reina you were born with a special gift. A gift no other child has-- a gift in which you can change the lives of those around you."
"Why do I have those dreams?" she demands in a childish voice.
"Its hard to explain the dreams. But I'll try to,' he sits across from her, 'Briena the dreams you are having are memories of your parents. The connection you have with them will help you to identify them."
"Who are my Daddy and Mommy?" demands Briena
Jack looks at her thoughtfully and nods, "I can't tell you who they are-- you'll know who they are when the time comes." Jack watches the dark haired brown eyed girl as she absorbs what she was told.
"When" she demands.
Jack shrugs, "I am not sure" he admits, "You'll just know."
"I wish I knew about them now" she sighs in frustration.
"Someday Briena you will" promises Jack.
*** A year later in LA ***
"Angel this came for you in the mail" Cordelia announces walking in the door carrying with her a package. She puts it on the counter.
"Thanks Cordelia," Angel replies getting up from his computer. He walks over and picks up the package. "I wonder who its from" he mutters as he opens it. Much to his confusion and surprise he finds an untitled book enclosed. "What is this?" mutters Angel in confusion.
"So Angel what is it?' asks the curious Cordelia, 'A gift from an admirer?"
Angel looks at her in confusion and shrugs, "I'm not sure. Its a book but it doesn't have a title. Who would send this too me?" he wonders opening it to the first page.
"Probably one of your psycho friends" Cordelia retorts. Much to her surprise she gets absolutely no remark from Angel. Cordelia huffs, "I'm leaving." She gets up and slams the door as she leaves. Angel is so engrossed in his reading that he doesn't notice her leave.
Angel looks up from the book in astonishment to realize that he is in possession of the only book to ever discuss the prophecy of the last slayer. "My God! This is amazing," he utters in amazement, "This book has part of the prophecy of the last slayer. Giles would love this." he remarks picking up the phone.
*** At Giles apartment in Sunnydale ***
"Hello" answers Giles sleepily. He instantly awakes to recognize Angel's voice.
"Sorry to wake you this late but I found something you might be interested in" Angel tells him apologetically.
Giles turns on his bedside lamp and sits up, "Its alright. So what is it you wanted to tell me?" he asks rubbing his eyes.
"Giles do you know if there was ever a prophecy about the last slayer?" asks Angel.
"Uh..If I remember correctly there is a prophecy about the last slayer,' he replies, 'But it has been missng for centuries. Why?" He asks interested.
"Because I think I have it" he announces
Giles yelps, "You have it? How?" The watcher asks in surprise.
"I received a package in the mail when I opened it I found a book with no title. I read the first page...it mentions the last slayer." Angel says excitedly, "I'll bring it tonight."
"Okay. We'll see you at my place." says Giles.
"All right" replies Angel hanging up.
**** Not far from Sunnydale at a motel ****
"Riena pay attention" orders Jack.
"Huh?" asks the girl in confusion looking at him in surprise.
Jack sighs, "Briena I know you are bored with this stuff but you need to learn it." He reminds her. Looking at the girl he has raised the last two years he is still stunned by the amazing creature.
"I know." she sighs in disgust. She walks over to the mirror and glances at her reflection. Seeing that her reflection is much the same there yet not she becomes saddened with herself. Glancing away from the mirror Briena looks at Jack the man who raised her. "Jack why am I fuzzy" she cries in anger.
Jack walks over to the girl to comfort her, "Its part of who you are. I'm sorry that you have to deal with this but it'll get better" He says hugging her. "I know it'll be better soon" he promises thinking to himself. He pulls away and asks "Now are you ready to get back to work?"
Briena looks up at the blond haired giant and reluctantly nods, "Sure" she follows him into the training room. She heads to the mini punching bag and hits it a few times lightly. Suddenly out of nowhere Briena gets this strange surge of power and with one hit she snaps the punching bag loose from its chain and it goes flying across the room. "Wow" she says in amazement.
"Thats good." compliments Jack. "My God her strength is getting more powerful by the day and she is only 5." he thinks to himself. To Briena he says, "Its time for you to go to bed midget"
"Do I have to?" she whines, "I'm not tired" she argues.
"Sorry kid but we need to leave tomorrow afternoon." reminds Jack
"I know" she grumbles heading to the door. "Night Jack" she calls.
"Good night Briena." replies Jack watching her leave. "And soon good bye" he thinks to himself.
Briena heads to her room and crawls into bed. Staring up at her ceiling she makes a wish, "I wish I knew my Mommy and Daddy." Soon she drifts off to sleep.
Part 3
*** Giles' apartment ***
"Giles whats the deal for tonight?" asks Buffy walking into the library.
Giles looks up blankly at his slayer, "Ahh Buffy" he says in surprise.
"Uh Giles who else would it be? I mean unless your expecting Santa Claus?" She teases sitting in a chair.
"Uh no I just wasn't paying any attention" stammers Giles.
Buffy then senses another presence "Who's here?" she asks curiously looking around. Much to her surprise out of the shadows steps Angel - her heart begins to pound in anticipation. "Hello Angel" she greets trying to sound casual.
"Nice to see you Buffy" replies Angel staring at her.
They jump out of their reverie when the front door opens and laughing teens walk in. Suddenly the room is quiet when in enters Cordelia and a dark haired man.
Cordelia looks around in disgust, "Okaaay are we suddenly in a morgue or is no one in the mood to talk?' she asks walking in. Seeing Giles she says "Hello Giles still wearing tweed I see." she sits down on the couch.
"Hi Angel" stammers Buffy's best friend Willow in surprise. "If you don't mind me asking uh why are you two here?" she asks.
"Yeah why are Dead Boy and Wannabe Queen here" demands Xander in obvious disdain as he glares at Cordelia.
"Well it seems like NerdBoy still has no humor,' snorts Cordelia, 'or fashion sense." She snaps back glaring at him.
"Okay I am sensing major hostility" states Willow's boyfriend Oz.
"This fashion disaster is Doyle" Cordelia introduces "Doyle thats Giles, Willow, Xander and Oz."
" 'ello" Doyle greets. The others greet Doyle
The teens enter the room and all sit in the living room. Giles can feel the tension in the room and in an effort to bring in control he says, "Angel called me last night and told me he found a new prophecy."
"Oh great! Dead Boy is Prophecy Boy again" groans Xander. They all turn and glare at him.
"So whats the deal" asks Buffy looking at Angel.
"Its the last Slayer" he says his voice serious.
"The last slayer" cries Willow excitedly, "Ooh is she like the last slayer ever or something. Or is she the metaphorical last slayer"
"Calm down Willow" says Buffy
"Yeah geez Will did you have coffee again" teases Xander
"I'm not exactly sure I'm still reading the book" answers Angel.
"The last slayer never heard it" Doyle remarks
Outside an apartment building a car pulls up and stops.
Briena looks at the apartment building before her, "Jack why are we here?" she asks
Glancing at his charge Jack answers, "There are some people here I need to see. Grab your bag we don't have much time" they get out of the car
Briena and Jack head into the building, "Why are we here"
"Riena please be good" pleads Jack. His heart beginning to break at the thought that tonight was the night he would lose the child he raised. Grabbing the backpack from the back seat he tosses it over he shoulder.
Huffing angrily Briena follows Jack towards the building. As they get closer Briena becomes more frightened, swallowing nervously she hurries to Jack's side taking his hand. "Jack? Why are we here?"
Kneeling before her Jack says. "Riena it'll be OK. You have nothing to fear here." He hugs her before standing. He takes her hand and leads her into the building.
Angel and Buffy both hear someone outside the front door. Curious Buffy opens the front door two unfamiliar people standing there. One is a little girl about 4 or 5 years old holding an older man's hand tightly Buffy notices the little girl's brown eyes are sad and nervous. Buffy feels like she has seen the girl before. "Who are you?" Buffy demands
"My name is Jack Sullivan. This Briena. I'm here about the book" he says looking at Angel. "We aren't vampires" he assures them
"Did you send it to me?" Angel demands
"Jack" Briena whimpers her voice filled with pain. She doubles over in pain. "Hurts Jack" she whimpers
"Is she all right?" asks Giles worriedly "Should I call an ambulance?"
"No she's fine" Jack answers. "She's having a reaction to the Hellmouth. She'll adjust"
Briena whimpers again. "Jack" she then passes out in his arms
"Do you have somewhere I can put her down?" Jack requests
Giles points to the stairs. "My room's upstairs" Jack nods picking up Briena he carries her into the room.
"Giles what is going on?" Buffy demands. 'What was he talking about?"
The upstairs door closes as Jack is walking down the stairs he answers "What I have to tell you cannot be mentioned outside this room not even to Riena"
The others look at each other and reluctantly nod. "Briena is a very special girl.' he begins. 'Giles have you heard of the dream child?"
Doyle looks at the man before him "She is special. I can feel it" he says looking at Angel
Giles removes his glasses. "Um yes. If I remember its the legend of a child born of a dream between one of light and dark. According to the legend the Dreamchild will be born in the...' he trails off. 'oh my god are you telling me what I think your telling me?" he glances at the stairs and then at Buffy and Angel
"Yes I am" Jack replies
"Uh care to fill us in?" asks Buffy
"It would be easier if I told you the prophecy' Jack answers. He begins,
'In a dream a child shall one day be conceived
between one of light and one of dark.
This dreamchild shall appear at the place where Hell and mankind fight
after the death of love combines with Hell.
The Dreamchild shall one day be brought before the two of light and dark
With the strengths of both good and evil
Her appearance shall come at a time of strife
To bring about a balance to day and night,
Love and hate, and loss and gain'
Looking at Buffy and then Angel "Does that make sense to you?"
"Uh no" Buffy shakes her head
Giles looks nervously at Jack. "Mr. Sullivan if you are sure that she is the one of the prophecy then why are you here?"
"Mr Giles there is a part of the prophecy missing.' he looks at the stairs. 'It is said that if she is not raised in the way of her parents she will not be able to save the world. She is both the Dreamchild and the Last Slayer"
The words of the prophecy dawn on Angel. "Oh my God. Are you saying what I think your saying"
"Yes.' Jack answers reluctantly. He glances at Buffy. 'Genetically Briena is your and Buffy's daughter" he announces stunning the teens.
"Say what?" demands Buffy
From the upstairs bedroom they hear Briena call "Jack" her voice filled with pain
Jack jumps up and hurries into the bedroom the others curiously follow. They watch from the doorway as Jack and she falls asleep. "My god" Giles whispers
Jack picks her up off the floor and lays her on the bed covering her. "She'll sleep for a while." He tells them returning to the main room "She's adjusting easier than I thought she would"
"I am totally confused" Buffy states "What is this with the whole uh daughter thing?" she demands sitting at the table.
Jack paces before the group "About 200 years ago my great great grandfather found this prophecy. He only found part of it over the years it has been passed down to each generation and it has been our duty to keep to guard the prophecy and to own day protect the child until it was time for the child to be reunited with her parents. It was also our duty to uncover more to the prophecy."
"So your her guide" Willow says
Jack stops pacing and looks at the witch "Not any longer it is now your duty" he says looking at Buffy and Angel.
Buffy looks at Giles "Is he telling the truth Giles?" she demands
Giles looks at his Slayer sadly as he removes his glasses "It is possible. I've only heard rumors of the prophecy."
Buffy stands "I've gotta get outa here" she mutters walking out of Giles apartment.
Angel follows close behind. He finds Buffy sitting on the edge of the water fountain. He hears the sounds of Buffy softly crying. He walks closer crouching before her he takes her hand with his own stroking it softly. "Buffy?" he asks tentatively
She looks at him her eyes filled with tears "Angel that night' she glances away and back 'I...I did have a dream about a child. I didn't think anything about it because I'd had those dreams time and again when we were together."
Angel sighs "I know Buffy. I did too" he admits
She looks down at their clasped hands her hair falling in her face "We both had a dream about a child. Why?"
"She has a purpose here. Buffy, I...I don't know exactly what but she does"
"What are we going to do Angel? How am I going to explain this to my Mom and Dad? Or Riley?" she asks
Angel tucks a loose strand of hair behind her hair "We'll deal with your Mom and Dad when the time comes." He promises.
"And Riley?" she asks softly
Angel sighs "I'm not sure Buffy if he should know."
Buffy pulls away from his touch "He's my boyfriend Angel." she retorts angrily
Angel stands his anger barely restrained "He's also part of a military group that hunts demons. If they found out about the little girl upstairs god knows what they would do to her. I am not willing to risk that. Are you?"
Buffy shakes her head "No" she admits softly. She looks at her hands "Angel what are we going to do about the little girl upstairs? How are we going to raise her?"
"We'll figure it out" Angel promises
Buffy nods standing she smiles slightly "We have a child Angel."
"Yeah we do" Angel smiles back "Why don't we go back inside" he suggests holding out his hand
The two lovers head into the apartment to find the others talking. Giles notices them enter "Ahh good your back."
Buffy sits down on the couch beside Willow. Angel sits beside Buffy leaning forward facing Jack he asks "Why did you wait to tell us about her earlier?"
Jack rubs his neck "In simple terms it wasn't time"
"Wasn't time? What does that mean?" Buffy demands
"Briena has this inner alarm that alerted her to the markers in your life that signalled the approaching time."
"I don't understand" Angel states
"Riena is somehow alert to times when you both are in pain. Angel when you returned from Hell she woke up screaming. She gets a physical reaction like you saw earlier. Its never been that intense."
"Does she know?" Angel asks
"Who you are?" he inquires at Angel's nod he answers "She knows she has a destiny she just doesn't know who you are. I thought it was for the best to wait until she was ready." Jack stands and goes over the back pack on the floor. He sits down and unzips the back pack and a stuffed dog falls out. He picks it up and chuckles "She never goes anywhere without Doogie." he takes out a folder and puts it on the coffee table "This is all the paper work I made for Briena. Birth certificates in there. I also added some basic things you'll need to know about her like favorite cereal" He stands again with a sad smile "Take care of her she's a great kid"
"We will" Buffy promises smiling back
He nods "I better get going"
"You aren't going to say goodbye to Briena?" Willow asks surprised
"No. Its better this way" he answers heading towards the door "I'll check in on her everyonce in a while" he promises heading out the front door closing it quietly behind him "Goodbye midget" he thinks walking away
Xander looks at Buffy and Angel "So who's getting the kid?"
Buffy and Angel look at each other "Haven't discussed it" Angel answers
"Buffy what about Riley?" Willow asks
Buffy looks at the others "I decided to not tell him"
"Why not?" Xander inquires
"He's part of the Initiative. I'm not sure if I can risk telling him" Buffy admits
"We won't if thats what you want" Willow promises
"Its wise that you don't" Doyle muses looking at Angel
"Mom's out of town why don't we head to the house" Buffy suggests
Angel nods "I'll go get Briena" He heads up to the bedroom to find the 4 year old little girl fast asleep. Smiling faintly Angel picks up the sleeping child. At first she struggles in his arms not familiar with the person holding her. Angel sensing her tension at his touch whispers "Its OK your safe." Calmed by the soothing voice she curls closer into the safety of his arms. Angel joins the others downstairs "Ready?" he asks Buffy. Buffy nods
" 'delia and me will go back to LA and keep the ship floatin'. Keep us up to date" Doyle says
"Hey Angel can I have tomorrow off?" Cordelia asks
"Sure" Angel agrees his attention on Buffy. "Why don't you drop us off at Buffy's then take the car."
Doyle nods and the four adults and the sleeping child go to the car.
"Buffy call me" Willow says hugging the blond Slayer
"I will" Buffy promises getting into the back seat with Angel
TBC